Indian Railways 2024: Expansion of Vande Bharat trains and big steps towards green energy

Indian Railways took several important initiatives in 2024 to provide a convenient and world-class travel experience to the passengers. This year proved to be historic for the major expansion of Made in India Vande Bharat trains and enhancing the freight efficiency. The Railway Ministry informed at the end of the year that now 136 Vande Bharat trains are operating on the Indian Railways network. Of these, 62 Vande Bharat trains were started in 2024. These semi-high-speed trains have now become a symbol of modern, efficient, and comfortable rail travel.

Vande Bharat: First choice of passengers

Vande Bharat trains have taken the travel experience of passengers to a new level.

• Key Features:
  • Equipped with Armor technology, which provides the highest level of protection.
  • 360-degree rotating seats.
  • Accessible toilets for disabled people.
• The trend of giving preference to Vande Bharat trains among passengers is continuously increasing.

Railway electrification and modernization

Indian Railways laid emphasis on environmental protection and modernization of the network.

• Electrification:
  • 3,210 km of rail track electrified by 2024.
  • Electrification of broad gauge network now increased to 97%.
• Amrit Bharat Station Scheme:
  • 1,337 stations were selected for modernisation.
  • Of these, work has started on 1,198 stations.
  • Tenders will be issued for other stations soon.

Target of zero carbon emissions by 2030

Indian Railways has set a target of becoming net zero carbon emitter by 2030.

• Green Energy Projects:
  • By November 2024:
    • 487 MW solar power plant.
    • 103 MW wind power plant.
• Capital expenditure:
  • A total provision of Rs 2,65,200 crore was made in 2024-25.
  • This is the biggest budget ever in the history of Indian Railways.

Special trains for Mahakumbh 2025

On the occasion of Maha Kumbh Mela, Western Railways announced to run 6 one-way special trains in view of the extra rush of passengers.

• Route:
  • Sabarmati-Prayagraj.
  • Bhavnagar Terminus-Prayagraj.
  • Udhna-Prayagraj.
  • Valsad-Prayagraj.
• Target:
  • To ensure convenience of passengers during Maha Kumbh Mela.
  • This service will be available at special fare.